Angioleiomyoma Clinical and Diagnostic Approaches

Angioleiomyoma is a benign soft-tissue neoplasm characterised by the proliferation of smooth muscle cells intimately associated with vascular channels. Clinically, it often presents as a slow-growing, well-circumscribed subcutaneous nodule that may be painful or tender, especially in extremities. Diagnostic evaluation typically begins with imaging studies to assess lesion morphology and vascularity. Ultrasonography can demonstrate a hypoechoic mass with internal vessels, while contrast-enhanced ultrasound and dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) delineate feeding vessels and enhancement kinetics. Computed tomography (CT) may be used for lesions in deep or complex anatomical sites. Definitive diagnosis relies on histopathological examination, revealing bundles of spindle-shaped smooth muscle cells surrounding vascular lumina. Immunohistochemical staining for smooth muscle actin and desmin confirms the smooth muscle origin, whereas CD34 highlights endothelial cells. Emerging molecular analyses have identified recurrent mutations, such as in the GJA4 gene, and distinct DNA methylation signatures that may aid in subclassification. Surgical excision with clear margins remains the gold-standard treatment, with recurrence being rare. Advances in minimally invasive resection techniques and preoperative vascular mapping have enhanced safety, particularly in anatomically challenging regions. Interdisciplinary collaboration between radiologists, pathologists and surgeons ensures accurate diagnosis and effective management of angioleiomyoma worldwide.

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Angioleiomyoma Clinical and Diagnostic Approaches publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in angioleiomyoma clinical and diagnostic approaches across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Angioleiomyoma: A benign tumour composed of vascular channels and smooth muscle cells.

Immunohistochemistry: Laboratory method using antibodies to identify specific proteins in tissue sections.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Non-invasive imaging modality using magnetic fields to produce detailed tissue contrast.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound: Ultrasonography technique employing microbubble agents to visualise vascular perfusion in real time.

DNA methylation: Epigenetic modification involving addition of methyl groups to DNA, influencing gene expression.

Epigenetic profiling: Comprehensive analysis of heritable chemical modifications to DNA and chromatin that regulate gene activity.

References

1. The dural angioleiomyoma harbors frequent GJA4 mutation and a distinct DNA methylation profile. Acta Neuropathologica Communications (2022).
2. Angioleiomyoma of the pulmonary artery: a case report and literature review. Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery (2020).
3. Clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical characterization of 14 cases of angioleiomyomas in oral cavity. Medicina Oral Patología Oral y Cirugia Bucal (2018).